Pediatric Center

Dilated cardiomyopathy

Definition

Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart becomes weakened and enlarged. As a result, the heart cannot pump enough blood to the rest of the body.

There are several different types of cardiomyopathy. Dilated cardiomyopathy is the most common form.

Alternative Names

Cardiomyopathy - dilated

Causes

Heart disease (which is caused by a narrowing of the arteries) and poorly controlled high blood pressure are the most common causes of dilated cardiomyopathy. These problems lead to a weakened and enlarged heart muscle.

There are many other causes of dilated cardiomyopathy, including:

Alcohol or cocaine abuse, or medicines that can be toxic to the heart (such as drugs used to treat cancer)

Abnormal heart rhythms in which the heart beats very fast for a long period of time

Autoimmune illnesses, when the immune system attacks and destroys healthy body tissue by mistake

Conditions that run in families

Infections that involve the heart muscle

Heart valves that are either too narrow or too leaky (regurgitant)

Trace elements, such as lead, arsenic, or mercury

This condition can affect anyone at any age. However, it is most common in adult men.

Symptoms

Symptoms of heart failure are most common. Usually, they develop slowly over time. However, sometimes symptoms start very suddenly and are severe.

Heart biopsy, in which a small piece of heart muscle is removed, may be needed depending on the cause. However, this is uncommon.

Treatment

Knowing your body and the symptoms that your heart failure is getting worse will help you stay healthier and out of the hospital. At home, watch for changes in your symptoms, heart rate, pulse, blood pressure, and weight.

A heart transplant may be recommended for patients who have failed all the standard treatments and still have very severe symptoms.

Placement of a left ventricular assist device or artificial heart may be considered.

Chronic heart failure becomes worse over time. Many people who have heart failure will die from the condition. Thinking about the type of care you may want at the end of life and discussing these issues with loved ones and your health care provider is important.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Heart failure is most often a chronic illness, which may get worse over time. Some people develop severe heart failure, in which medicines, other treatments, and surgery no longer help. Many people are at risk for deadly heart rhythms, and may need medicines or a defibrillator.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of cardiomyopathy.